Arizona Senate Bill 1053: Expanding Veterinary Care Through Telehealth
- Dr. Zeke Zekoff
- May 3
- 2 min read
In 2023, the State of Arizona passed Senate Bill 1053, a significant piece of legislation aimed at modernizing veterinary medicine by incorporating telehealth practices. This bill amends sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically addressing how veterinarians can establish patient relationships and provide care through electronic means.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR): The bill explicitly allows veterinarians to establish a VCPR electronically, provided certain conditions are met. This is a critical update, as it acknowledges the role of technology in delivering veterinary care.
Informed Consent and Standards of Care: Veterinarians must obtain informed consent from clients, ensuring they understand that the same standards of care apply to telehealth visits as to in-person visits.
Prescribing Medications: The legislation addresses the prescription of drugs and medications through electronic means. It sets specific rules for initial prescriptions and renewals, and it restricts the prescription of controlled substances without an in-person examination.
Availability for Follow-Up Care: Veterinarians using telehealth must be available for follow-up evaluations or be able to refer clients to local veterinarians for in-person care.
Record-Keeping and Client Communication: The bill mandates that veterinarians provide clients with necessary contact information and maintain thorough records of telehealth consultations, including the veterinarian’s license number.
Impact and Significance
Senate Bill 1053 represents a major advancement in how veterinary medicine is practiced in Arizona. By integrating telehealth, it has the potential to:
Increase Access to Care: Telehealth can extend veterinary services to underserved areas or pet owners with mobility issues.
Improve Convenience: Pet owners may find it easier to schedule and attend virtual appointments for certain types of care.
Enhance Efficiency: Telehealth can streamline certain aspects of veterinary practice, allowing for more focused in-person visits when necessary.
Overall, this legislation reflects a progressive approach to veterinary medicine, embracing technology to improve animal health and well-being.
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